KNOWN FAULTS · BMW

BMW X3 (E83) 2.0d / 20d (N47, desde 2007) common problems.

2004–2010 · Diesel

Sources are not verified in real time and no entry confirms that your car is affected.

2 known faults with sources

Stretched rear timing chainValve timing

Engine / equipment: N47 2.0 diesel (116d–123d, 316d–325d, 520d, X1/X3 18d-20d)
Period mentioned: 2007–2015 (improved from 2011)
Symptoms: Rattling from the rear of the engine (gearbox side) on a cold start, getting worse over time. In extreme cases the engine cuts out while driving.
Possible cause described: The timing chain sits at the rear of the engine; its guides are poorly lubricated and the chain stretches. If it jumps or snaps, the valves hit the pistons and the engine is destroyed.
Check for the garage: Listen with the engine fully cold, ideally with a mechanic's stethoscope on the rear of the block.
Cost cited in the source: Approx. €2,000–4,000 at an independent garage (engine must come out)A rough figure from the original database, not an up-to-date quote.

xDrive transfer case actuator motorTransmission

Engine / equipment: ATC 400/500 transfer case with actuator motor (X3 E83, X5 E53 from 2004, X5 E70, X6 E71/E72)
Period mentioned: 2004–2014
Symptoms: The 4x4, ABS and brake warning lights come on together while driving (often intermittently), a click or clunk under the car when switching the ignition off or on, and jerky acceleration in low gears.
Possible cause described: The plastic gear in the motor that drives the transfer case clutch wears out, and the system disables all-wheel drive, ABS and stability control to protect itself. A parts manufacturer names an excessive difference in tread depth between front and rear tyres as a common cause of the wear.
Check for the garage: Scan every module with a diagnostic tool (transfer case codes) and measure the tread depth on all four tyres. The ABS and brake lights can have other causes, such as a wheel sensor or the ABS module: confirm before replacing parts. With the brake light on, also check the fluid and do not drive if the pedal feels abnormal.
Cost cited in the source: Complete actuator motor: about $350 in a US forum case; a cheaper reinforced gear is also sold on its own. Tyres extra if wear differs between axles.A rough figure from the original database, not an up-to-date quote.